To amend the HITECH Act to allow an individual to obtain a copy of such individual's protected health information at no cost unless certain circumstances apply, and for other purposes.

# HR 7790 Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would amend the HITECH Act (a healthcare privacy law) to allow individuals to request and receive copies of their own medical records for free in most cases. Currently, healthcare providers and insurers can charge fees for providing these copies. The bill would eliminate or significantly limit those fees, making it easier and cheaper for people to access their personal health information. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects patients and healthcare consumers who want copies of their medical records, as well as healthcare providers, hospitals, and insurance companies that currently charge fees for providing these records.

Insurance companies and medical offices would need to adjust their practices and potentially absorb costs related to copying and sending records. **Current Status:** HR 7790 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full House vote. The bill was sponsored by Representative Bill Foster, a Democrat from Illinois. No action has been taken on the bill at this time.